1.3 million North Carolinians to travel for Memorial Day, expected to break 20-year record, AAA reports

WNCN | 05/15/2025

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) – It’s set to be another record-breaking year for Memorial Day travel in the Carolinas.

AAA predicts 1.3 million North Carolinians will travel at least 50 miles for Memorial Day this year, which marks an increase of nearly 50,000 compared to 2024.

Nationwide, 45.1 million people are estimated to spend time away from home for the holiday weekend, and that’s 1.4 million more domestic travelers than last year, according to AAA. This number would set a new Memorial Day weekend record that dates back to 2005, with 44 million people.

Out of the 1.3 million projected travelers from North Carolina, 1.18 million are expected to drive, while over 114,000 will fly for the holiday, AAA reports.

“Despite economic uncertainty and global challenges, travel remains a priority for Americans, with millions eager to make memories with a Memorial Day getaway,” said Debbie Haas, the vice president of travel for AAA. “Whether travelers are looking for a quick getaway or an extended vacation, there are budget-friendly options for every plan. From a short beach retreat to an extended cruise, working with a travel advisor can help uncover exclusive discounts and create a vacation that best meets your interests and needs.”

In 2025, 87% of Memorial Day travelers nationally will take a road trip, and fortunately for drivers, a trip to the gas pump should be lower than last year, when the U.S. average of regular was $3.59 per gallon and $3.33 per gallon in North Carolina, according to AAA.

Experts said gas prices have avoided the usual seasonal spikes so far this spring, primarily due to lower crude oil costs.

“As summer unofficially begins and travel demand picks up, there’s a chance that pump prices will edge upward,” said Tiffany Wright, spokesperson for AAA in the Carolinas. “Historically, gas prices tend to peak in the spring or summer before gradually easing as schools reopen in the fall.”

Meanwhile, airports are bracing for another busy holiday weekend, with AAA predicting 3.61 million will take to the skies, an almost 2% increase from 2024 when 3.55 million air passengers.

AAA reports this Memorial Day weekend isn’t expected to set an air travel record, but this year’s numbers are slated to exceed pre-pandemic levels by 12%.